For Kids' Sake, Let's Connect Schools and Parents

I agree with the article "For Kids' Sake, Let's Connect Schools and Parents" by Suzie Boss it asks the question of how "welcomed" parents feel into either the school or the classroom which I find to be very important. Being a special education teacher, I am constantly in contact with parents in regards to day to day activities. I am constantly updating parents on what we will be doing in the future and find time to contact parents when there is a concern that needs to be addressed. I also ask that parents do the same with me so that together, we can best meet the needs of the student. One of my students, I will name him Ander to keep his identity concealed, I have had for 3 years now. When his mom can't get him to do a chore around home, she will call me and ask that I handle the issue. Not that she feels this is my problem or that I need to do it, but she knows the relationship I have built with the student and how he will listen to what I tell him. We have also set it up that consequences that are needing to be given at either school or home will be followed through at both places. This connection with the school and my student's mom, has helped him progress so that a simple call to me, will immediately change his behavior. It also helps me know that mom is trying to work on the same skills I am working on.

Often times I even have parents just walk into my class to talk to me. I have never asked that they first report to the office, but instead, allow them to come talk to me directly. Parents have no problems coming to me with concerns and it has made a tremendous impact on their students' progress within my program. Those parents who are not as involved in the classroom, tend to have a student who does not make as much progress on their goals and frequently changes in behavior do not occur.

My classroom is pure evidence that parents and classrooms need to work together. As a group, goals can be worked out in and out of school and a student can be held accountable for any behaviors they may have.

Reference:
Boss, Suzie. "For Kids' Sake, Let's Connect Schools and Parents." October 21, 2010. Edutopia.org. Retrieved on October 20, 2010. Link to article: Connect Schools and Parents